I would not have my boys look at it and think it beautiful.' A heavy footstep sounded on the terrace.

Turning, they saw Osuin, an armed giant, with flowing locks, and thick, tawny beard.
'Wife, a word with you,' he shouted, beckoning from some twenty paces away.
They talked together; then the lady returned, a troubled smile on her face, and said softly to Veranilda: 'Some one wishes to speak with you--some one who comes with the king's good-will.' Veranilda looked towards Osuin.
'You cannot mean-- ?' she faltered.
'No other,' replied Athalfrida, nodding gaily.

'Are you at leisure?
Some other day, perhaps?
I will say you would be private--that you cannot now give audience.' This pleasantry brought only the faintest smile to the listener's face.
'Is it hither that he would come ?' she asked, again looking anxiously towards the ruddy giant, who stamped with a beginning of impatience.
'If so it please you, little one,' answered Athalfrida, changing all at once to her softest mood.

'The king leaves all to my discretion, and I ask nothing better than to do you kindness.

Shall it be here, or within ?' Veranilda whispered 'Here'; whereupon Osuin received a sign, and stalked off.